9 October, 2025IndustriALL Global Union welcomes the ceasefire agreement reached in Gaza between Hamas and Israel as an important and necessary step towards ending the immense human suffering and destruction caused by months of conflict.
The global union movement has repeatedly condemned the devastating toll of the violence — thousands of lives lost, hostages held, families displaced, workplaces destroyed, and entire communities deprived of safety and livelihoods.
“Workers and their families have borne the brunt of this conflict,”
says Atle Høie, IndustriALL general secretary.
“A ceasefire is the first, important step, but it must lead to genuine peace, grounded in justice, international law and respect for human rights. Israeli forces must immediately evacuate all occupied areas, and humanitarian access must be opened without any blockage. We cannot rebuild lives or economies on the ruins of violence.”
IndustriALL calls on all parties to ensure that the ceasefire is fully implemented and accompanied by immediate humanitarian access, protection of civilians, and support for reconstruction efforts that prioritise decent work, equality, and social justice.
The global union federation also urges the international community to intensify diplomatic efforts towards a sustainable political two-state solution in line with UN Security Council Resolutions 338 and 242, based on the 1967 borders and the mutual recognition of the rights of both Palestinians and Israelis to live in peace, self-determination, and dignity.
“Trade unions will continue to stand for peace, democracy and rights and against the exploitation, hatred, and despair that fuel war,”
adds Atle Høie.